ESO PhD Studentship in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Conduct cutting-edge research at ESO’s world-leading observatories while advancing your PhD thesis under dual supervision.
Best for:Best for PhD students in astronomy or related fields seeking hands-on research experience at a leading observatory with dual supervision and technical training.
Overview
The European Southern Observatory (ESO) invites PhD students to participate in its Studentship Programme, enabling them to conduct research at one of the most prestigious observatories globally. This opportunity allows students to collaborate with ESO astronomers and fellows on projects spanning observational, theoretical, and fundamental astrophysics. The programme offers a unique blend of scientific collaboration, hands-on observatory experience, and access to state-of-the-art facilities in Santiago, Chile. Students will work on their PhD thesis while contributing to observatory operations and technical projects, fostering interdisciplinary learning and professional growth in a dynamic international environment.
What you'll do
- Conduct research on your PhD thesis under dual supervision by your home university supervisor and an ESO staff astronomer or fellow.
- Participate in observatory projects at La Silla Paranal, focusing on improving observatory operations and instrumentation.
- Engage in hands-on technical projects to develop skills in observatory operations and instrumentation.
- Collaborate with ESO researchers on scientific projects, including journal clubs, topical seminars, and conferences.
- Contribute to outreach activities and mentor master’s students in collaboration with ESO fellows or staff astronomers.
- Attend university classes if required, with a detailed course plan provided in the application.
- Present research findings and participate in scientific discussions within the ESO community.
Requirements
Degree required: Enrolled in a PhD programme in astronomy or a related scientific field (e.g., observational, theoretical, or fundamental astrophysics).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in astronomy or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience or interest in observational, theoretical, or fundamental astrophysics.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international research environment.
- Basic technical skills relevant to observatory operations or instrumentation.
- Must be enrolled in a PhD programme at a recognized university.
- No nationality restrictions, though preference may be given to nationals of ESO Member States, host states, and strategic partners.
- Studentship duration must align with the applicant’s PhD timeline (minimum 6 months, up to 2 years).
- Applicants must coordinate their project with both their home university supervisor and an ESO supervisor.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-20
Applicants must submit a web application through the ESO Recruitment portal. The application requires a motivational letter, CV, academic transcripts, a summary of the master’s thesis (if applicable), a general PhD plan, a detailed project outline for the Studentship, and two letters of reference. Additionally, a letter from the home institute confirming PhD enrollment, scholarship status, and financial support is required.
- Motivational letter
- Curriculum Vitae (including publications, if any)
- Copies of university transcripts and certificates/diplomas
- Summary of master’s thesis project (if applicable)
- General PhD scientific plan (tentative title, home institute supervisor, start/end dates)
- Outline of the proposed ESO Studentship project (timeline, alignment with PhD plan, benefits of ESO involvement)
- Two letters of reference (one from home institute supervisor, one from proposed ESO supervisor)
- Letter from home institute confirming PhD enrollment, scholarship status, and financial support
Contact
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